What Happened to Daniel Bryan in the WWE?
Once one of the WWE's most formidable and well-loved wrestlers, Daniel Bryan has had a tumultuous career marked by both glory and controversy. From a match against AJ Styles to his current role as General Manager of Smackdown Live, Bryan's journey has been anything but conventional.
The Rise of Daniel Bryan
Operating under the mask of 'The WWE Champion,' Bryan quickly gained recognition for his entertaining and powerful performances. Despite his abilities, Bryan's path to stardom was far from easy. In a twisted fate, the powers that be at WWE seemingly tried to obstruct his rise, setting him up for repeated injuries.
Known for his fragile mental state, Bryan was often injured. Fragile like 'glass,' he required delicate handling or he would face catastrophic consequences. A single bump on his forehead could lead to a concussion, and the repetitive beatings ultimately led to his early retirement. Despite his fragile nature, his fans' loyalty shone through, and he remained a fan favorite.
Match Against AJ Styles
Before his retirement, Bryan participated in an intense quarterfinals match against AJ Styles in the IC title tournament. This match was one of the last major events in his career before he suffered a back injury, which further contributed to his retirement from full-time wrestling.
Post-Wrestling Career
Following his retirement, Bryan transitioned into a managerial role. In the current landscape of WWE, he now serves as the General Manager of the Smackdown Live show. While the position is a significant downgrade from his in-ring days, it allows Bryan to stay connected to the sport he loves.
Notably, despite his transition, Bryan still makes appearances on WWE events. Most recently, he faced AJ Styles in a match that had all the tension and drama of his earlier career. The bout lasted for 12 minutes, with Bryan ultimately losing the match.
Despite this, Bryan continues to contribute to the WWE's narrative by offering insights, management strategies, and reminding the audience why he's one of the most memorable wrestlers in the company's history.
Conclusion
Daniel Bryan's journey through the WWE is a testament to both the challenges of the sport and the unwavering love of his fans. From his rise to the glass-like fragility that led to his retirement, Bryan has embarked on a new chapter in WWE that allows him to contribute in a way that his body can no longer support. His legacy as one of the most influential and beloved wrestlers in WWE history remains intact.